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Author: Nzula Nzyoka

  • Boyz II Men, Sauti Sol to headline lineup at Stanbic Yetu Festival

    Boyz II Men, Sauti Sol to headline lineup at Stanbic Yetu Festival

    Tickets to Stanbic Yetu Festival almost sold out eight days to event.

    Iconic RnB group Boyz II Men will headline the second edition of the Stanbic Yetu Festival.

    Following last year’s highly successful event, which offered attendees an electrifying musical experience, this year’s festival will feature an exceptional lineup of both Kenyan and international Rhythm and Blues artists. 

    Boyz II Men is well-known for redefining popular music and continues to create timeless hits that appeal to fans across all generations. The band has penned and performed some of the most celebrated and best-known classics of the past two decades.

    Throughout their 25-year career, Boyz II Men have won an incredible nine (9) American Music Awards, nine (9) Soul Train Awards, three (3) Billboard Awards, and the 2011 MOBO Award for Outstanding Contribution to Music, a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, as well and a Casino Entertainment Award for their acclaimed residency at the Mirage Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, which has been ongoing since 2013. 

    The group’s mega hits include “End Of The Road”, I’ll Make Love To You”, “One Sweet Day”, “Its So Hard To Say Goodbye To Yesterday”, “Motownphilly” and “On Bended Knees”. We expect Kenya to witness the greatest music show this year.

    Kenya is the first leg of their first-ever Africa tour before later heading to Uganda and South Africa.

    Sauti Sol

    Kenyan ensemble Sauti Sol will headline the Kenyan lineup for the second edition of the Stanbic Yetu Festival.

    The band, who recently performed at the Forbes 30 under 30 summit held in Gaborone, Botswana, will sample music from their award-winning albums which are loved in Kenya and across the continent.

    The ensemble recently announced that they will be going on an indefinite hiatus as they each pursue other projects, so this might be the only opportunity to see them perform together for a long time.

    “We are excited to have Sauti Sol perform at the upcoming 2nd Edition of the Stanbic Yetu Festival, they will most definitely help create a soulful and unforgettable musical experience for Kenyans and beyond,” said Lilian Onyach, Head Consumer and High-Net Worth and Ag. Head of Brand and Marketing.

    The event is set to take place on June 10, at the Uhuru Gardens. Speaking about the location’s significance she said, “Uhuru Gardens, which is the event location, was a well thought out and deliberate choice for us as it aligns with our purpose which is ‘Kenya is our Home, we drive her Growth’. Therefore, we want everyone to come to enjoy the music, acknowledge Kenya’s successes, and appreciate our Kenyan heritage.”

    She further added that attendees will have the opportunity to get a glimpse of the transformed grounds. 

    “As we know, Uhuru Gardens was officially declared a National Monument in 1966 and is undergoing a massive transformation. The monuments and museum are not yet open to the public, however, Stanbic Yetu Festival audiences will get a slight glimpse of the magnificent grounds.”

    The festival will also feature some of the best Kenyan DJs including DJ G-Money (Conrad Gray), DJ Forro (Andrew Waititu), Dj Shaky (Allan Wainaina), DJ Grauchi (Zacchaeus Ngani), CNG (Charles Githumbi) and DJ Cream ( Derrick Kamau).

    Tickets for the Stanbic Yetu Festival are available for purchase on www.ticketyetu.com. 

  • How to pivot after retrenchment

    How to pivot after retrenchment

    In a world that is constantly evolving, finding a new path is the only way to survive.

    Losing a job can be a devastating experience, often leaving individuals feeling disheartened and uncertain about their future. However, it’s important to remember that there is life after losing full-time employment. 

    In a world that is constantly evolving, with changing industries and emerging opportunities, adjusting and finding a new path is not only possible but can also lead to personal growth and success. 

    One individual who has embraced this mindset is media personality Ciru Muriuki who recently found herself in a position of being under-employed after her previous workplace underwent restructuring.

    Ciru had been working at a large international media house for nearly five years when the organization decided to shift its focus toward a digital-first approach. Unfortunately, this shift meant that certain roles would become redundant, and Ciru found herself facing the daunting prospect of being laid off. 

    Instead of succumbing to despair, she decided to share her experience, shedding light on the challenges faced by those who have lost their jobs and emphasizing that there is no shame in acknowledging such a situation.

    In her vlog, Ciru spoke candidly about the tough economic times we are living in and the fact that losing a job does not define one’s worth or potential. She highlighted the inspiring examples of people she knew who had never been employed yet managed to thrive in their own unique ways. This realization served as a wake-up call for Ciru who discovered a newfound motivation to explore the numerous opportunities available to her.

    One of the key takeaways from Ciru’s experience is the importance of embracing change and seeking alternative avenues for personal and professional growth. While she initially contemplated diving fully into content creation, she recognized that entrepreneurship and other emerging fields presented vast opportunities for her to explore. 

    She also acknowledged the significance of content creation and entrepreneurship in today’s society, emphasizing that they offer exciting prospects for individuals seeking to navigate their way through a changing job market.

    The process of adjusting after being laid off can be challenging, but it also opens doors to new possibilities. Here are some strategies that can help individuals in a similar situation thrive.

    1. Embrace the mindset of resilience: Recognize that losing a job is not a reflection of your abilities or worth. Maintain a positive attitude and approach the situation with resilience, viewing it as an opportunity for personal growth and exploration.
    2. Assess your skills and interests: Take stock of your skills, experiences, and passions. Identify areas where you excel and explore how you can leverage them in new and emerging fields. Consider the skills you may need to develop further and seek opportunities for growth and learning.
    3. Network and seek support: Connect with like-minded individuals, industry professionals, and support networks. Attend networking events, join online communities, and engage with people who can offer guidance and support during your transition. These connections can lead to potential job opportunities and provide valuable insights into new industries.
    4. Explore alternative career paths: Consider careers and industries that align with your interests and skills. Research emerging fields and assess the demand for specific roles. Look for transferable skills that can be applied to different sectors, enabling you to diversify your options.
    5. Develop a growth mindset: Embrace a mindset focused on continuous learning and adaptation. Be open to acquiring new skills, taking on challenging projects, and stepping out of your comfort zone. Embracing change and staying adaptable will increase your chances of success in a rapidly evolving job market.
    6. Create a personal brand: In the digital age, personal branding plays a crucial role in career development. Build an online presence by creating a professional website, optimizing your LinkedIn profile, and showcasing your skills through a portfolio. Consistently produce high-quality content that reflects your expertise and interests.

    At first, pivoting may seem like a daunting task, but once you begin the process more opportunities will open up for you. Always remember to stay positive!

  • Opportunity for Kenyan film producers as Creative Producers Indaba opens submissions

    Opportunity for Kenyan film producers as Creative Producers Indaba opens submissions

    Eligible film professors are encouraged to apply by July 1.

    Submissions have opened for the third Creative Producers Indaba (CPI), a film producers’ development programme presented by the Realness Institute, in collaboration with EAVE, International Film Festival Rotterdam’s IFFR Pro, and the Marrakech International Film Festival’s Atlas Workshops.

    Strong creative producers play a crucial role in driving the growth of local media markets, and the CPI aims to strengthen and grow the number of capable producers on the African continent. Mehret Mandefro, Director of Development and Partnership at the Realness Institute says, “Creative Producer Indaba is addressing the most important gap in the local African media markets – training producers that can develop and finance local stories for the global and local markets. We are thrilled to be launching the third edition.”

    Since its inception in 2021, the CPI has nurtured outstanding film talent and facilitated meaningful collaborations that have empowered participants to identify the right partners for their African projects. There are numerous success stories, and a shining example is the collaboration between three African producers: Bramwel Iro from Kenya, Caroline Kganyago from South Africa, and Zoe Ramushu from South Africa. These talented individuals, who participated in last year’s Indaba, are now set to co-develop their projects with Dutch producer Ellen Havenith, whose film Tiger Stripes just won the Grand Prize at Cannes’ Critics Week. These collaborations exemplify the power of the CPI in fostering connections that transcend borders and build pathways to production for African projects. 

    The CPI offers 10 African producers with and without projects and 5 international producers the unique opportunity to augment their leadership and entrepreneurial skills, deepen their producer capabilities, and build professional networks across Africa and beyond.  

    2022 alumnus Zoe Ramushu (Zimbabwe/SA) reflects on her experience in the CPI:  “It is a great programme for producers wanting to sharpen their knowledge, build their network and expand their entrepreneurial horizons.” 

    “The CPI aims to empower creative producers and industry leaders in Africa,” says Kristina Trapp, CEO at EAVE. “EAVE is proud to contribute with our methodology to support the groundbreaking work done by Mehret Mandefro and Elias Ribeiro of the Realness Institute.” 

    “We are thrilled to once again be part of Indaba,” says Facundo Lema, Talent Manager at IFFR Pro. “The programme continues to demonstrate the importance of collaboration and fostering a sense of community within the industry, as vital elements in empowering and boosting producers’ careers. One of the most remarkable aspects is the creative exchange and the exploration of the countless opportunities that will unfold during the IFFR Pro days.” 

    The Creative Producers Indaba participants will also attend the Atlas Workshops during the Marrakech International Film Festival in November and attend industry sessions at the International Film Festival Rotterdam in January 2024.

    The chosen participants will enjoy the valuable opportunity of receiving mentorship from prominent figures in the industry, including Group Leaders Mehret Mandefro and Diana Elbaum, as well as Story consultant  Mmabatho Kau. Guest speakers such as producers Femi Odugbemi, Katriel Schory, Sata Cissokho, Constanza Arena  and Dayo Ogunyemi, along with IFFR Festival Director Vanja Kaludjercic, will generously share their skills, insights, and guidance.

    “The CPI welcomes not only film producers but also film professionals who work closely with producers, including funding body representatives, international sales representatives, distributors, broadcasters, and development executives who have a vested interest in the African marketplace,” says Mehret Mandefro  “We are pleased to announce the renewal of our partnership with Projeto Paradiso, which secures one spot for a Brazilian producer. Furthermore, we are thrilled to introduce our new partnerships with the Canada Media Fund, The Austrian Film Institute, and the Swiss organisation Focal.”

    Applicants must meet certain criteria, including having produced at least one feature fiction, series, or documentary film, or a minimum of two short films as a lead or co-producer. Film professionals should have a minimum of two years of professional experience.

    The deadline for submissions is 3 July, 2023.

    Source: Release
  • Rihanna named richest woman in music by Forbes

    Rihanna named richest woman in music by Forbes

    Taylor Swift, Madonna, Beyonce and Celine Dion make up the top five.

    Top: Taylor Swift, Madonna. Bottom: Beyonce, Celine Dion

    Forbes magazine has released a list they’re calling America’s richest self-made women focusing on entrepreneurs, executives and entertainers.

    In the entertainment section, musicians Rihanna, Taylor Swift, Madonna and Beyonce make the top four musicians included on the list.

    Rihanna leads the pack, landing at No. 20 with a “self-made score” of 10. Forbes estimates the “Umbrella” singer’s net worth to be $1.4 billion, which they attribute to her success in music and cosmetics. Fenty Beauty, which she co-owns with French luxury goods conglomerate LVMH, doubled its revenue in 2022, according to the publication. Fenty ventured into several African markets including Kenya.

    Swift comes in at No. 34 with a “self-made score” of 8. According to Forbes‘ estimates, the “All Too Well” singer boasts a net worth of $740 million. Her record-breaking music sales and tour ticket demand make up the bulk of that figure. Last year, Swift became the first artist in Billboard history to simultaneously hold the top 10 spots of the Billboard Hot 100. 

    Madonna comes in at No. 45 with a self-made score of 9. She is worth an estimated $540M made from music sales, and tours. Madonna is also considered one of the top pop divas of all time. Her Celebration tour was announced in January 2023 and kicks off in July. It’s her first since 2020.

    Beyoncé, who is currently in the midst of the European leg of her acclaimed Renaissance World Tour, lands at No. 48 with a “self-made score” of 8. Forbes attributes Queen Bey’s estimated $540 million net worth to her roughly three decades’ worth of success in music. This year, the “Single Ladies” singer announced a collaboration with fashion house Balmain themed after her Billboard 200-topping Renaissance album.

    Celine Dion comes in fifth for the women of music with an estimated $480M made from her decades-long career in music and her Las Vegas residencies. Forbes ranks her at No. 56 with a self-made score of 8. At the end of May, Dion announced that she would be cancelling her tour due to an ongoing medical condition. She was diagnosed with Stiff Person Syndrome in 2022.

    Oprah Winfrey/Getty

    Beyond music, Oprah Winfrey leads the women of entertainment landing at No.13 with a self-made score of 10. Forbes estimates Winfrey is worth $2.5B the bulk of which comes from her decade’s worth of TV appearances, films and shows according to the magazine. She is also ranked at number 1217 in the Billionaires list.

    Other notable names on the list include Kim Kardashian (No. 21), Kylie Jenner (No. 38), Madonna (No. 45), Dolly Parton (No. 59), Reese Witherspoon (No. 59), Barbra Streisand (No. 61), Serena Williams (No. 89) and Shonda Rhimes (No. 96).

    Sources: Forbes Magazine, Billboard Magazine
  • Uganda’s Ghetto Kids advance to the final of “Britain’s Got Talent”

    Uganda’s Ghetto Kids advance to the final of “Britain’s Got Talent”

    Britain’s Got Talent grand final will premiere on Sunday, 4 June.

    The dancing kids of Uganda called Ghetto Kids have made it to the finals of the popular talent competition reality show, Britain’s Got Talent.

    The Ghetto Kids received a standing ovation from all four judges for their uplifting performance which aired on Wednesday night.

    Following the performances, hosts Ant and Dec spoke with judges Alesha Dixon and Simon Cowell picked the Ghetto Kids as their standout act. 

    The six, aged five to 13, are orphans who live together in Uganda after being adopted by their father Daouda Kavuma. The kids are Priscila, 12, Asharif, 12, Akram, 13, Shakib, 12, Madwanah, 13 and Josephine, 5, who have become fan favourites due to their energetic routines.

    The six are among 31 who Daouda has given a home to after finding them living on the dangerous city streets. Using dance to help them fulfil their potential, the former primary school teacher has so far changed the lives of around 200 children. Many of them have gone on to study at university, have successful careers or start families of their own.

    Britain’s Got Talent grand final will premiere on Sunday, 4 June.

  • In Pictures: Madaraka Day Celebrations in Embu

    In Pictures: Madaraka Day Celebrations in Embu

    All roads lead to Embu County as Kenya celebrates 60 years of self-independence.

    updates ongoing.
    Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua shares a word with CS Ababu Namwamba/Selestus Mayira, KBC
    Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi with his wife Tessie Shangatti Mudavadi/Selestus Mayira, KBC
    Governor Cecily Mbarire and CS Ababu Namwamba/ Selestus Mayira, KBC
    President Dr William Samoei Ruto gives Madaraka day address at the Moi Stadium in Embu county./Selsestus Mayira KBC
    President Azali Assoumani of the Union of Comoros and the President of the African Union gives address at the Madaraka day celebrations in Embu/Selestus Mayira, KBC.
    Former President of Niger Mahamadou Issoufou/ Selestus Mayira KBC
    Deputy President of the Republic of Kenya gives address at the Madaraka Day celebrations in Embu/Selestus Mayira,KBC
    Governor of Embu County Cecily Mbarire welcomes the DP and President to the county for the Madaraka Day celebrations/Selestus Mayira,KBC.
    KDF Puma helicopter brandishing “Happy Madaraka day banner” is flown by Major Alice Orina (Pictured in inset)/ Selectus Mayira, KBC
    /Selestus Mayira, KBC

    Guard of Honour
    Guard of Honour
    Guard of Honour
    March past parade/Selestus Mayira KBC

    President William Ruto inspects the guard/Selestus Mayira KBC
    President William Ruto inspects the guard
    President William Ruto inspects the guard
    President William Ruto waves to the people of Embu County as he arrives for the Madaraka Day celebrations./State House
    President William Ruto inspects the Guard of Honour/State House
    Generals salute the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces President William Ruto/State House
    The commander-in-Chief of the Kenya Armed Forces President William Ruto/State House
    President William Ruto greets the people of Embu/State House
    The President of the Republic of Kenya Dr William Samoei Ruto
    Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua/Selestus Mayira KBC
    Prime Cabinet Secretary of Kenya Musali Mudavadi/Selestus Mayira
    Former president of Niger, Mahamadou Issoufou who is the Chief Guest for Madaraka Day celebrations/ Selestus Mayira KBC
    Speaker of National Assembly Moses Wetangula/ Selestus Mayira KBC
    National Assembly Deputy Speaker Gladys Shollei/Selestus Mayira Mayira KBC
    Kenyans enjoy performances at Embu stadium/Selestus Mayia KBC
    /Selestus Mayira KBC
    Johnstone Muthama/Selestus Mayira KBC
    Chief Defence Forces Francis Ogolla/ Selestus Mayira KBC
  • Entertainment as Kenya celebrates 60 years of independence

    Entertainment as Kenya celebrates 60 years of independence

    Organised by the Permanent Presidential Music Commission (PPMC) for Madaraka Day, celebrating 60 years of Kenya’s self-rule, entertainment varied showcasing the country’s multiculturalism.

    Taking the stage today were the Kiathambu & Tazama Cultural Dancers who performed the song “Mwinjiro”  and the Kirima Cultural Dancers to perform a cultural song often used during happy celebrations.

    Kiathambu & Tazama Cultural Dancers/Selestus Mayira KBC

    The day also included a performance by the Embu College YCS Choir who performed the Twajenga Taifa Letu, a choral song meant to celebrate the country’s independence.

    Embu Youth Choir/Selestus Mayira KBC

    Additionally, performances included dances by the Contemporary dancers in Embu with a performance choreographed by Ticha Sly and main performances by Hope Lady Fire, Eston Ita, Januu, Sharon Mtoto Wa Mama Kenya, Muska Njamba Nene & Sons, Gpiizo 254, Eric Moen, Jedie K and more.

    Embu Contemporary Dancers/Selestus Mayira KBC

  • Ramogi Cultural Dancers bring colour to Madaraka Day celebrations in Embu

    Ramogi Cultural Dancers bring colour to Madaraka Day celebrations in Embu

    As Kenya celebrates its 60th year of self-independence, Kenyans who thronged to the Embu stadium were treated to a cultural dance by the Ramogi cultural dancers or the Kogan Kochia. With their colourful outfits, immaculate feathered headdresses and vigorous dance, they brought much need pomp and colour ahead of the President’s arrival. 

    One of the dancers, as per the commentators is 90 years old.

    Who are they?

    The Ramogi Dancers from Homa Bay County are a traditional men’s troupe composed of two teams, the Kagan and Kochia dancers that perform authentic Luo dances of western Kenya. Traditionally the dances would be performed during burial ceremonies, called tero buru. 

    Nowadays, the dancers provide entertainment during state functions, wedding ceremonies and other rites, in addition to burial ceremonies.

    The troupe consists of dancers Paul Orwa Apiyo. Daniel Akumu Mandha, Alfred Anyango Migure, James Ojuok Ochieng’, Kennedy Odhiambo Olela, John Oyoi Ooyi, Joseph Aludo Owaka, John Owuor Oyugi and Stanbradox Odhiambo Oyugi.

    Understanding the artistic brilliance of the Ramogi Cultural Dancers

    The Ramogi Cultural Dancers are renowned for their high-energy performances, showcasing a fusion of music, dance, and storytelling. Their choreography celebrates the Luo people’s way of life, highlighting their beliefs, customs, and daily activities.

    Dance plays a pivotal role in Luo culture, and the Ramogi Cultural Dancers masterfully express various themes through their movements. They showcase the lively Odi dance, as seen at this year’s celebration, is characterized by swift footwork, graceful arm gestures, and energetic jumps. This dance form often is used to celebrate joyous celebrations.

    The Ramogi Cultural Dancers’ mesmerising performances are usually accompanied by a diverse array of traditional musical instruments, each contributing to the music that resonates through their choreography. The nyatiti, a stringed instrument similar to a lyre, takes centre stage, producing soothing melodies that evoke a sense of nostalgia and cultural pride. Other instruments like the orutu (a one-stringed fiddle), oporo (a horn made from animal horns), and drums add depth and rhythm to the performances, creating an immersive experience for the audience.

    Entertainment for state events is produced by the Permanent Presidential Music Commission (PPMC).

  • Rapper, business mogul Diddy says Diageo neglected his tequila due to race

    Rapper, business mogul Diddy says Diageo neglected his tequila due to race

    By BBC

    Rapper Sean Combs, known as Diddy, has accused drinks giant Diageo of breaking the terms of their business partnership and neglecting the tequila brand they bought together because he is black.

    In a complaint filed in New York, he said the company invested in competing brands, while depriving DeLeon Tequila the same level of support.

    He also said Diageo limited the drinks’ distribution to “urban” neighbourhoods.

    Diageo denied the allegations and said it would defend itself “vigorously”.

    “This is a business dispute, and we are saddened that Mr Combs has chosen to recast this matter as anything other than that,” a spokesman for the company said in a statement.

    “Our steadfast commitment to diversity within our company and the communities we serve is something we take very seriously.”

    The lawsuit comes after years of partnership between UK-based Diageo and Mr Combs, who rose to fame as a music executive and rapper in the 1990s before branching out into acting and other business ventures.

    Diageo, owner of brands such as Johnnie Walker, Guinness and Tanqueray, approached him to help market the company’s Ciroc vodka in 2007.

    Together they bought DeLeon Tequila in 2013, but the complaint accused Diageo of quickly falling short of its commitments for distribution, investment and brand positioning.

    Mr Combs’ company, Combs Wines & Spirits, said there was a pattern of “racial typecasting”, pointing to disputes that Diageo has had with other black business partners.

    “This case is not an ordinary contract dispute in which a party chooses to disregard its contractual promises due to greed and profit,” the firm said in the filing.

    “Rather, and similar to the realities experienced by many people of colour in the United States, Diageo’s treatment of its business relationship with Mr Combs was tainted by racial prejudices.”

    The lawsuit cites a 2019 conversation in which a Diageo executive allegedly said Mr Combs’s brands would be more widespread had he been “Martha Stewart”, among other decisions.

    The DeLeon brand is also currently sold in less than 4% of possible outlets compared with more than a third for Diageo’s competing Casamigos and Don Julio tequilas, the complaint said.

    Despite being repeatedly confronted over the issues, Diageo failed to repair the situation, Combs Wine & Spirits alleged.

    It said Mr Combs intends to take separate legal action to request billions of dollars in damages and has asked the court to order the firm to “provide the equal treatment that it has contractually promised”.

    Diaego said it was “disappointed our efforts to resolve this business dispute amicably have been ignored and that Mr. Combs has chosen to damage a productive and valued partnership”.

    “For more than 15 years, we’ve had a productive and mutually beneficial relationship with Mr Combs on various business ventures, making significant investments that have resulted in financial success for all involved,” the company said.

    “While we respect Mr Combs as an artist and entrepreneur, his allegations lack merit, and we are confident the facts will show that he has been treated fairly.”

    Diageo plc is a British multinational alcoholic beverage company, with its headquarters in London, England. It operates from 132 sites around the world including Kenya. The company’s brands available in Kenya are Tusker, Guinness, Johnny Walker and Smirnoff.

  • Vybz Kartel facing ‘life-threatening’ illness in prison

    Vybz Kartel facing ‘life-threatening’ illness in prison

    International dancehall music superstar Adidja Palmer better known as Vybz Kartel is facing a life-threatening illness in prison according to Human rights attorney Isat Buchanan. 

    According to Fox 5 which obtained a sworn medical affidavit, his private doctor has notified authorities that his Graves’ Disease and heart condition are getting worse and that if he did not get surgery soon, it could be fatal. 

    His attorney said that the inhumane prison conditions were putting his life at risk. Kartel’s son said they will keep praying for the best.

    For the past week, Vybz Kartel has been in solitary lockdown 23 hours a day over an alleged cell phone infraction. 

    “He’s in a cell, and if you can picture a brick oven because that’s how those cells are built, the ventilation is next to none,” Buchanan said.

    The man many consider to be the king of Dancehall music has been behind bars in Jamaica since 2011 on a murder conviction. It’s a crime he said he did not commit and is appealing the conviction to the UK’s highest court.

    Report by Fox 5.